slow cooker chicken cacciatore

I have purchased more butter and flour over the course of the past month than I care to discuss.  We really need to lighten things up this week!  Here is an easy recipe to toss in your slow cooker before you go to bed or head out the door in the morning.  You can serve it over pasta but I think it's filling enough to serve alone, alongside a tossed salad.

Prep Ahead Plan:  Option 1:  If you're making this on the weekend or you are going to be home, place all ingredients in the slow cooker either the night before or in the morning.  Cook on low for 3 hours.  OR  Option 2:  Place all ingredients in the slow cooker when you are ready to cook it, including FROZEN chicken breast rather than defrosted.  Cook on low for 8 hours.

slow cooker chicken cacciatore

1 16 oz jar of tomato sauce or 2 cups homemade sauce ( I use San Marzano Marinara)

1 onion, chopped

1 green pepper, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced or crushed

6 ounces fresh mushrooms

6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

6 torn basil leaves

salt and pepper

a sprinkling of crushed red pepper (optional)

2 T dry white wine (optional)

1.  Pour half of the tomato sauce on the bottom of the slow cooker.  Layer remaining ingredients in the slow cooker ending with the sauce.  Cook on LOW for 3 hours.

2.  Serve alone or over pasta with a sprinkling of parmesan cheese.